06 Mar Some Thoughts On Flossing
Did you know that many people have used what the American Dental Association calls “unusual items” to remove things stuck between their teeth? It’s true. Fingernails, according to the ADA, were the most popular. But the problem with using “unusual devices” (one such “unusual” device was the edge of a credit card) is that it’s not a precise dental tool; a person using something other than floss to clean between their teeth may do damage to their teeth or to the surrounding gum line.
Stick to interdental cleaners that are approved by the American Dental Association. No, it doesn’t have to be a strand of floss. Other options for interdental cleaners include water flossers and dental picks. For instance, if a person has trouble navigating by hand a strand of floss they may be able to use a device to hold the floss in place; they may also find that a water flosser requires much less effort and coordination to use properly. Make sure to talk to your dentist about the best option for you to keep that space between your teeth clean. Remember that plaque can quickly build up in the spaces between teeth, and when the plaque goes unchecked it can harden into a substance called tarter—a substance that can only be cleaned away by your dentist—and tarter is a major indication of an impending case of gum disease.
There is no one good time to clean the space between your teeth. The most important part of interdental cleaning is that it happens. There is no right or wrong time of day. It doesn’t seem to matter if you floss before your brush or you brush before you floss; stick to the routine. Pick a time and do it at that same time every single day. If you have any questions pertaining to the best way to floss your teeth then talk with your dentist. Remember also that if you’re someone who doesn’t floss regularly, but who is now picking up the habit, you may experience some tenderness in your gum line for the first few days to a week.
No Comments